WASHINGTON, D.C. (5/25/13) – Memorial Day is an American holiday celebrated on the last Monday in May. This day honors all the men and women who have died while serving our country.

This holiday was originally known as “Decoration Day.” It was formed in the years that followed the Civil War. In 1971, it officially became a federal holiday. This holiday was originally known to honor those who had fought in the Civil War. However, during World War I the United States found itself conflicted and the holiday evolved to observe American military troops who died in all wars.

For many decades Memorial Day was observed on May 30, but was changed in 1968. Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day falling on the last Monday of May to give federal employees a three day weekend; the change went into effect in 1971.

In honoring our deceased hero’s, many Americans visit memorials or cemeteries, hold family gatherings and parades. Our Nation’s Capital celebrates Memorial with one of the largest parades in the country.

The average American citizen tends to not consider, on an everyday basis, all of the freedoms that we have. There are so many aspects of our lives that would be completely different if not for our freedom. A popular phrase that one hears these days is, “Freedom don’t come free.” Many men and women gave their lives so we could have this freedom. They suffered and they died. Their families still suffer to this day. Take a moment this memorial day, and thank those who gave all, so we might have all.